Wells named head coach at Point Loma

Pointers alum takes over program after serving as pitching coach since 2012

In addition to hiring David Wells as head baseball coach, Point Loma also will refurbish its home field.

David Wells remembers a feeling of invincibility when he was on the mound for Point Loma High.

And why not? Wells was nearly unhittable as a senior in 1982, setting San Diego Section records that still stand with nine shutouts and 42 consecutive scoreless innings.

“I had the ability and knew what I was doing,” said Wells, who was selected section Player of the Year after leading the Pointers to a section title over Hoover. “But what sticks out is how good our team was. How we came together. We had the confidence. We walked onto every field — whether it be Madison, Kearny, Clairemont, Mission Bay, it didn’t matter who it was — we knew we were going to beat the pants off them. That’s what I want to try to bring back to this program.”

Point Loma Athletic Director John Murphy announced that Wells has been hired as the Pointers’ new head coach. Wells has served as the school’s pitching coach since 2012.

“It’s been a really positive experience for them the past three seasons,” Murphy said. “Now Dave will really be able to put his stamp on the program. I’m very excited, and Dave’s excited as well.

“He definitely has a tremendous knowledge of the game. He’s very insightful and reads the game really well.”

Wells was a second-round draft pick by the Toronto Blue Jays out of high school. He learned a thing or two during a 21-year major league career that included three seasons with the Padres and concluded with 239 career victories.

He is one of 23 pitchers in major league history to throw a perfect game, a distinction he shares with fellow Point Loma graduate Don Larsen.

There are plenty of stories Wells could share, like that perfect day for the Yankees. But what he is especially eager to share is his experience and knowledge.

“It’s about giving back,” said Wells, adding, “The message I want to send out is that if you’re serious ballplayers and you want to play in my program, I’m going to get you the right help. I’m going to teach you everything I know. ...

“Making Point Loma a contender again is my foremost obligation. I want to put some banners on the wall, get some kids drafted, and make it a better program.”

The Pointers will get a boost coming into the 2015 season, with several renovations planned on the Dana Middle School field where the team plays.

A groundbreaking ceremony will be held June 30 on the field that bears Wells’ name. Planned improvements include leveling the field, moving in the center-field fence, improving the batter’s eye, and installing artificial turf.